This week Glassons held their first runway show at Van Lier Rose Nursery in Riverhead to showcase their high summer and autumn collections. A first for Glassons (a runway show not held in-house) and a first for the venue (in all its petal-strewn industrial splendour). What was not to like?

The runway presentation was spearheaded by Creative Director Adam Bryce who continues to lead Glassons in what is obviously a whole new direction. The trend of doing things differently also carried through the styling by the fabulous Zara Mirkin. The runway was smack-bang in the middle of the petal-covered nursery, with live music supplied by a band put together especially for the occasion by Zara. Simply put, it was a tight collection of clothes with great jackets, especially with two tone sleeves, a fabulous range of denim, flirty dresses, and dense prints. It very much felt like Glassons is moving forward with a strong sense of purpose, growing up and doing things differently. With the emphasis on individuality, or ‘standing out’ instead of blending in, maybe Glassons is speaking as much to themselves as they are to the Glassons girl. With great little elements we have already seen at NZFW2012, it’s possible they are also looking toward New Zealand designers for their cues, instead of just the international market. Glassons isn’t just any chain store, they are OUR chainstore – and there is definitely more to love. There are some great accessories – backpacks, boots, and felt hats as well as some subtle plaid shirts, knitwear, touches of tapestry, and leather-look quilted bomber jackets and skirts. These looks will be coming into store over the next few weeks. Also watch out for the street style campaign for Stand Out shot by ex-pat New Zealander Maya Handley in New York. It is beautiful.